Online Environmental Science graduates first two students

University of Arizona non-traditional degree offers new opportunities for many students around the world

First ENVS Online Grads

For some students, like Armando Jimenez and Dominic Pisciotta, attending university courses in person is not possible. Despite the challenges posed by living out of state or raising a family, these two students were able to earn their degree online.

The Online Bachelor of Science Environmental Science program at the University of Arizona opened its virtual doors for the first time three years ago and already celebrated the first two graduates this past May.

“I’m considered a non-traditional student,” Jimenez wrote in an email. “First of all, I’m 50 years old. I’m also married with three kids. So, the online program afforded me flexibility, thank goodness!!”

Since graduating from the Online Environmental Science program, Jimenez continues working for the Department of Risk Management Services at the University of Arizona as a Health and Safety Specialist, and is the Asbestos Program Manager for the University.

The Online Environmental Science degree offers the same full support from faculty and staff as the traditional program, a feature Pisciotta said he was very grateful for.

“I enjoyed the professors very much,” Pisciotta said. “Each were very knowledgeable and engaging. I think it’s great to be able to gather some field experience along with class work as such in Dr. Jeffrey Silvertooth’s class.”

ENVS Online Opportunities

As Pisciotta moves forward in his pursuit of a career in sustainable energy and land and water management with modern farming practices, he offered advice to current and prospective students.

“Explore your passions and make a commitment of excellence throughout your journey, stay focused!”

Jimenez and Pisciotta were just two of many potential students around the world who cannot earn a traditional degree. However, the Senior Academic Advisor for the Online Environmental Science program, Santiago Tso, said the University of Arizona Online program is offering new opportunities for those students.

“It means a lot to our online program to have the first students graduate,” Tso said. “We have students from all across the United States, active military students stationed overseas, and international students. Having an online program makes it possible to earn a degree in Environmental Science, regardless of residency.”

With the graduations of Jimenez and Pisciotta, they now lead the way for many more environmental scientists to come. The Online Environmental Science degree currently has over 120 active students, and plans to graduate another handful in Spring 2023.

You can learn more and apply to the Online Bachelor of Science Environmental Science program here. If there are additional questions, reach out to Santiago Tso, Senior Academic Advisor for the Online Environmental Science degree.